Impact of OPC’s Actions in 2023
In 2023, the Organization for the Prevention of Blindness (OPC) continued and intensified its efforts to prevent blindness in the most vulnerable regions of Francophone Africa. The programs implemented achieved significant results in the fight against preventable eye diseases, in collaboration with local and international partners.
Beneficiaries and Projects
- 7,211,808 people received mass antibiotic distribution.
- 32,192 healthcare professionals and volunteers were trained and mobilized to strengthen the management of eye conditions.
- OPC led 8 programs in 5 countries, continuing its commitment to eye health.
Trachoma and Trichiasis
In Chad, mass drug distribution campaigns treated 738,130 people for trachoma, which remains the leading cause of infectious blindness in these regions. Additionally, 1,243 screeners were trained to identify cases requiring treatment, and 399 trichiasis surgeries were performed in accordance with WHO standards.
Neglected Tropical Diseases
As part of the programs to fight neglected tropical diseases, several actions were carried out in Chad:
- 3,218,434 school-aged children were treated for schistosomiasis.
- 409,277 children received treatment for soil-transmitted helminths in 16 regions, contributing to the reduction of the prevalence of these infections.
Childhood Blindness
The pilot project to fight childhood blindness in the Mopti region of Mali enabled 4,771 pediatric consultations and 84 surgeries for children with severe eye conditions. In parallel, 62 healthcare staff members were trained in pediatric eye care, ensuring continuity of care in the region.
Recognition and Commitment
OPC’s status as an official partner of the World Health Organization (WHO) was renewed for three years, and it received the IDEAS label, a mark of transparency and quality in its actions. OPC’s initiatives align fully with the 2030 Agenda for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aiming for equitable access to eye care for all.